GLOCK RTF2 vs RTF4

RTF4 (Rough Textured Frame 2) is a less aggressive texture compared to RTF2 (Rough Textured Frame 2). RTF2 was a new grip texture introduced in 2009 on a number of popular GLOCK pistols--G17, G21, G23, G22, and G19. The GLOCK RTF2 texture features  thousands of tiny raised "pyramid" patterns on the pistol's polymer frame. The GLOCK RTF2 texture was designed to provide excellent traction even when hands are wet or sweaty. Some users felt the texture was too aggressive and abrasive especially with extended training sessions. The gesture also wears through clothing. Many Gen3 guns with RTF2 also have unique scalloped slide serrations that look like fish gills. Both law enforcement and civilians complained about the abrasive RTF2 texture and GLOCK quickly changed the texture to RTF4 when Gen4 guns were introduced in 2010. The RTF4 texture is a rough textured surface designed to enhance grip traction, without being too aggressive. The RTF4 texture appears on the grip frame as well as on the interchangeable backstraps. The RTF4 texture was carried over to Gen5 GLOCKs.

Is GLOCK Still Making RTF2 Pistols?

The RTF2 texture is still being produced but is limited quants and only for Law Enforcement. Lipsey's and Vickers Tactical teamed up in 2009 to produce RTF2 textured GLOCK 17 and GLOCK 19 pistols. About 2500 G17’s and 2500 G19’s were built. The original GLOCK RTF2 guns had the “fish gill” slide serrations which were not visually appealing nor as effective as the standard vertical serrations. So Lipsey's/Vickers pistols stayed with the standard vertical slide serrations.

What GLOCKs Has Fish Gill Slide Serrations?

The only GLOCK pistols to have fish gill slide serrations was the G17, G19, G21, G22 and G23, both Gen3 with RTF2 texture. GLOCK issued a limited re-release of the RTF2 in 2017 on the G17, G19 and G22, but only the G17 and G22 had fish gill slide serration. The G19 had straight serrations. 

Are GLOCK RTF2 Fish Gill Guns Rare?

There were thousand of GLOCK RTF2 Fish Gill pistols manufactured, so technically they are note rare, there were just fewer produced. That said they do have a higher value than other comparable GLOCK models.